Ask An Audiologist

Tinnitus is not an uncommon condition that can be incredibly frustrating… and in some cases, debilitating to those that suffer from it. But… what is the symptom, and how do audiologists diagnose and treat it? Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss in this Veterans Day themed Ask an Audiologist podcast!

In the fall of 2024, Apple released a revolutionary software update to their current AirPods Pro 2 headphones -- turning them into FDA-approved over-the-counter hearing aids. This is HUGE news in the audiology world, but pose two big questions: Will these devices replace the professional services of audiologists? Or, will they expand awareness of hearing loss in young people, and actually motivate them for higher end, more effective solutions? Let's find out! The Ask an Audiologist team took a trip to Audiology Services of West Virginia -- Dr. Michael's private practice -- to test these $249 devices against his professional equipment. We break down the pros and cons, and share how this technology may shape the future of the industry. The results... may surprise you!

Itchy ears are frustrating and can be a PAIN! What are the frequent causes, and how do audiologists like Dr. Jordan treat it? She breaks it down with Kevin on this ghoulish episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast!

While the causes of hearing loss can be complex and various, the actual types of hearing loss can be reduced to just three categories. Dr. Michael and Kevin compare and contrast conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing losses.

It's a tough topic to talk about, but cancer and hearing loss unfortunately go hand in hand. But it isn't usually the cancer itself that causes hearing loss but rather the ototoxic chemotherapy drugs used to treat it. Dr. Michael and Kevin discuss how audiologists work with oncologists to preserve the hearing of cancer patients and maintaining quality of life after treatment.

Audiology is a complex and necessary service for people. Hearing connects individuals to each other and is an essential part of communication. But what happens if hearing loss goes untreated? Dr. Michael, Dr. Jordan, and Kevin discuss some shocking statistics and studies on the intricacies of hearing and cognition.

It's a heated clash between two audiologists… Dr. Michael and Dr. Jordan compete for the title of MVP in the first annual Ask an Audiologist game show! Kevin navigates managing disruptive contestants and sketchy audiology-focused questions put together by a non-audiologist podcast producer. Chaos turns into anger… which turns laughs in this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast!

In this week's episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, Dr. Michael and Dr. Jordan are talking about tools of the trade! What gets them excited when working in their practice? Learn about the simple, advanced, and future tools of audiology!

It's Balance Awareness Week which means Dr. Michael and Kevin are breaking down how our vestibular system works! In this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, we learn how the ear is connected to balance and dizziness disorders as well as a key tip to seeking treatment yourself!

How is hearing loss portrayed in reality TV shows? Dr. Jordan, Dr. Michael, and Kevin respond to contestants featured in The Golden Bachelor, Project Runway, and Squid Game: The Challenge! What did producers get right, how do participants open up, and what does the crew have to add? Don't miss this fun and eye-opening episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast!

Two ages of patients, during two unique points of life's journey — Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss the differences in diagnosing and treating hearing loss in pediatric and elderly patients. Which does Dr. Jordan prefer? We hope you join us in this very informative episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast!

We've shared about the past and present of all things audiology, but what about the future??? Dr. Michael, Dr. Jordan, and Kevin look ahead at the amazing and revolutionary way that the field of ear and hearing health is changing… and it's a lot closer than you may realize!

What is a CROS / BiCROS set of hearing aids... and who are they for? Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss a unique solution to single-sided deafness in the latest episode of the Ask an Audiologist episode, based on the article written by Dr. Carol Hawkins: https://askanaudiologist.com/cros-hearing-aid/

Maybe you've seen them on store shelves or gotten an ad for them online: ear and hearing products. But should you be using these at-home solutions for common ear issues? Dr. Michael, Dr. Jordan, and Kevin weigh in during this fun and unique episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast!

The gang has all talked about how much they love watching earwax removal videos… and today that dream turns into reality. Dr. Michael, Dr. Jordan, and Kevin react to all kinds of things audiologists have found in human ears. We recommend not watching this episode during breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

An invisible hearing aid??? Is it too good to be true? Dr. Jordan Strong and Kevin discuss the pros and cons of the Phonak Lyric device, in what may be a first product review in Ask an Audiologist history! This episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on this article written by D'Anne Rudden: askanaudiologist.com/phonak-lyric/

Over the course of this channel, we've shared the ins and outs of the audiology industry. So now, we're having some fun reacting to hearing loss depicted in the super-popular, heavily syndicated comedy show Seinfeld! A quippy standup set on hearing tests, and a young Rob Schneider's hearing aid doesn't work well... or does it? Dr. Michael and Dr. Jordan, along with host Kevin -- add their two cents in the debut episode of Ask an Audiologist Reacts!

What is that squealing that is coming from a hearing aid? Whistling, also known as feedback, is a common sound you may hear when dealing with certain devices. Dr. Jordan Strong and Kevin discuss why this happens... and how to get it to stop. This episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on the article written by Dr. Kelly Knolhoff: askanaudiologist.com/why-does-my-hearing-aid-whistle/

It's a tough job, but Dr. Michael and Kevin are about to make this complex and boring topic engaging and interesting. From hearing aids to cochlear implants… what does your insurance plan and/or Medicaid cover? This important episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on this article written by Dr. D'Anne Rudden: askanaudiologist.com/does-medicare-pay-for-tinnitus-treatment/

It's a special episode of Ask an Audiologist -- the gang's all here! For the first time ever, Kevin sits down with Dr. Michael Squires and Dr. Jordan Strong as they discuss the dangers of fireworks and hearing. They also share cautionary tales, and tips on how to protect your ears during this holiday week. From all of us at AAA, stay safe, have fun -- and happy 4th of July!

Why would someone lose hearing on just one side of their head… and how common is it? Dr. Michael and Kevin discuss the complexities of unilateral hearing loss and the treatment options available to help live with it. This episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on the article written by Dr. Ram Nileshwar: askanaudiologist.com/do-you-have-hearing-loss-in-one-ear-but-not-the-other/

Are rechargeable hearing aids for you? What are the advantages of them versus disposable zinc-air batteries? Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss the pros and cons in this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, based on the article written by Dr. Carol Hawkins: askanaudiologist.com/rechargeable-hearing-aids/

These are two VERY different devices that aim to give the wearer effective awareness and communication through better hearing – but which one is for you? Dr. Michael and Kevin discuss the difference between hearing aids and cochlear implants, based on this article written by Dr. D'Anne Rudden: askanaudiologist.com/difference-between-hearing-aid-and-cochlear-implant/

How often do you need to perform hearing aid maintenance? Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss ten tips to keep your devices in tip top shape! This episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on this article by Dr. Emily McMahan: askanaudiologist.com/hearing-aid-maintenance/

Does your hearing get worse if you don't wear hearing aids? That's the question Dr. Michael and Kevin are answering in this week's Ask an Audiologist podcast! Plus, they discuss Memorial Day facts, and the controversial perspective on over-the-counter hearing aids. The information in this episode is based on the article written by Dr. Joan McCormack: askanaudiologist.com/does-your-hearing-get-worse-if-you-dont-wear-hearing-aid/

A pressure washer for the ear… or an ear spa? Those are two very different descriptions for the same device! Dr. Jordan and Kevin talk about many audiologists' favorite tool – the Earigator. Cerumen removal has never been so fun! The who, what, where, when, and why of this Ask an Audiologist episode is based on the article written by Dr. Al Turri: askanaudiologist.com/earigator-cerumen-irrigation/

Can Dr. Michael and Kevin really boil down why YOUR hearing aids aren't working in this video? Maybe, maybe not – BUT they can certainly explain common issues that give much better insight on why you or a loved one just aren't satisfied with the results of your new devices. This episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on the article written by Dr. Meg Kalady: askanaudiologist.com/why-dont-my-hearing-aids-work/

Ear candling… what is it, and what do people believe it is a treatment for? Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss the dangers of this holistic hearing treatment and other much safer alternatives in this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, based on the article written by Dr. D'Anne Rudden: askanaudiologist.com/ear-candling-for-tinnitus/

It's well known that diabetes can affect many aspects of one's health… but did you know that can also include hearing? From the way a diabetes patient's body processes sugar to medications used to treat the disease, there's a lot to know about this topic that affects so many people! Dr. Michael and Kevin have all the answers and more in this Ask an Audiologist episode based on the article written by Dr. Madeline Henry: askanaudiologist.com/can-diabetes-cause-hearing-loss/

AAA (Ask an Audiologist) is partnering with AAA (American Academy of Audiology) in a very special episode to take YOU inside the epicenter of audiology! Kevin sits down with Academy Executive Director Patrick Gallagher to discuss this year's conference in Atlanta… as well as everything else the academy has to offer! Get a glimpse inside a world in which audiologists congregate to learn, teach, and advocate for the industry. Of course, you can always check out their website here (and even sign up for next year's expo): audiology.org/

If hearing amplifiers are much cheaper than hearing aids… what's the downside? Turns out, there really is a science to sounds. Dr. Michael and Kevin discuss the pros and cons of readily available hearing amplifiers and prescribed hearing aids custom fitted to the wearer. All that and more in this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast based on the article written by Dr. Judy Huch: askanaudiologist.com/hearing-amplifiers/

Are allergies and tinnitus connected? What could be making that constant ringing in the ears worse? Dr. Jordan Strong and Kevin discuss causes and solutions for a very common problem, based on this article written by Dr. D'Anne Rudden: askanaudiologist.com/allergy-induced-tinnitus/

Many people who experience hearing loss will not even notice its decline over time… but what if it happened in an instant? In this April Fool's Day episode of Ask an Audiologist, we're looking into what types of hearing loss are permanent… and which may be only temporary. The article we're basing this week's discussion on is by Dr. Emily McMahan: askanaudiologist.com/is-your-hearing-loss-temporary-or-permanent/

Whether they're rechargeable or disposable, getting the most life out of hearing aid batteries will make anybody and everybody's life easier! Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss how long batteries of all sorts last, how to extend battery life, the advantages and disadvantages of rechargeable versus disposable, and much MUCH more. This episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on this article written by Dr. Dusty Jessen: askanaudiologist.com/extending-the-life-of-hearing-aid-batteries/

In this special episode of Ask an Audiologist, Kevin interviews Indiana-based author, Matt Hay, on his life and relationships navigating hearing loss through his rare disease neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). In his new book, Hay chronicles how he relied on music and his support system to make it through one of the toughest times of his life. You can find "Soundtrack of Silence: Love, Loss, and a Playlist for Life" anywhere books are sold: https://read.macmillan.com/lp/soundtrack-of-silence/  And for more information on all things audiology, please visit askanaudiologist.com! 

Why can knowing the human hearing range be important… and how can you best protect your ears from damage over the course of a lifetime? Dr. Jordan and Kevin are about to equip you with a wealth of knowledge, and boil down the complexities of frequency, loudness, pitch, and volume. This episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on the article written by Dr. Liliana Cabrera Piccinini: askanaudiologist.com/human-hearing-range/

Sudden deafness is just as terrifying as it sounds! But what causes it, and can it's effects be treated and/or reversed? Dr. Michael and Kevin discuss a condition that can affect anybody in this Ask an Audiologist episode based on the article written by Dr. Meg Kalady: askanaudiologist.com/sudden-deafness/

Everyone has earwax… but some have WAY more than others. So much so that it can actually make their hearing worse! Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss how earwax affects hearing tests, and what they do to remove it. The newest episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on this article written by Dr. Joan McCormack: askanaudiologist.com/does-earwax-affect-hearing-tests/

What is an acoustic neuroma, and how many people in the U.S. does it actually affect? Dr. Michael and Kevin discuss signs, symptoms, and treatments in this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, based on this article written by Dr. Al Turri: askanaudiologist.com/acoustic-neuroma/

Most people know there are certain professions or daily life activities that require hearing protection… but is it just as effective if it includes 2024 tech? We're talking Bluetooth audio, noise-canceling features, and much, much more! Dr. Jordan and Kevin break it down in this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, based on this article written by Dr. Kelly Knolhoff: askanaudiologist.com/bluetooth-hearing-protection/

“Cheaters never prosper” – it's a popular proverb… but how (and why) would somebody ever lie on a hearing test? And what are the ways audiologists can tell immediately if there is or isn't hearing loss? Dr. Michael and Kevin only speak truth in this latest episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, based on this article written by Dr. Madeline Henry: askanaudiologist.com/can-you-cheat-a-hearing-test/

Tinnitus is a common condition that impacts so many people. It can range from mild to severe, with many people struggling to manage it in their daily life! But could exercising actually help improve it? Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss getting jacked arms AND ears in the latest episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast which is based on this article written by Dr. Emily McMahan: https://askanaudiologist.com/exercises-for-tinnitus/

Hearing aids can be life changing technology that greatly improve hearing and communication… but are there other side effects? Dr. Michael and Kevin discuss the good, bad, and everything in between that comes with new hearing devices. This episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on the article written by Dr. Taylor Chabot: https://askanaudiologist.com/hearing-aid-side-effects/

Taking a hearing test is the first step to determining if someone has hearing loss and how severe it may be. Dr. Jordan and Kevin take a deep dive into what this routine exam shows, the sound frequencies that are common to go first, and how often these tests are needed. This episode of Ask an Audiologist is based on this article written by Dr. Ram Nileshwar: https://askanaudiologist.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-hearing-test-frequency/

You're attending a party, or having dinner at a restaurant, and you realize that you just can't understand conversation clearly -- do you need your hearing checked? Why can't we hear well in situations with a lot of background noise? Dr. Michael and Kevin explain in this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, based on the article written by Dr. D'Anne Rudden: https://askanaudiologist.com/why-you-cant-hear-in-background-noise/

Have you ever wondered why sometimes your ears feel clogged, stuffy, or even congested? Is it air pressure, earwax, water, or something else? Dr. Michael and Kevin discuss in this light-hearted Christmas-themed episode of Ask an Audiologist... based on this article written by Dr. Meg Kalady: https://askanaudiologist.com/feeling-of-fullness-in-the-ear/

Real Ear Measurement is an essential part of audiology, programming new devices specifically to a patient's hearing loss. Dr. Jordan and Kevin discuss what and how real-ear measurements work, and why it's so important! This episodes of the Ask an Audiologist podcast is based on the article written by Dr. Mary Carson: https://askanaudiologist.com/real-ear-measurement/

Dr. Jordan was among the first fifteen practices & clinics approved by Neuromod to give the game-changing Lenire tinnitus treatment! Hear her first-hand experience... from her introductory trip in Ireland, to her day-to-day interactions with patients! There's some valuable information in this episode of the Ask an Audiologist podcast, based on the article written by Paula Rivers: https://askanaudiologist.com/lenire-tinnitus-treatment/

Custom hearing aids -- what options are available for patients and is there a benefit to using them? Dr. Jordan explains, while Kevin contemplates what color he'd want his devices in. This episode is based on the article by Dr. Carlee Michaelson: https://askanaudiologist.com/picasso-hearing-aids/

Hearing aid technology has changed dramatically in the last few decades -- and especially over the last couple years! Types and styles can be overwhelming for those trying to correct their hearing loss. However, consulting with an audiologists will get you a prescription and guidance on what will be best for you. Dr. Michael and Kevin share insight on what's currently available on the market -- and the benefits of the various hearing aid designs, based on this article by Dr. Dusty Jessen: https://askanaudiologist.com/in-ear-hearing-aid/

Tinnitus is a common hearing condition in adults... but what about kids? How can parents tell if their children are suffering from tinnitus? What are the sign and symptoms? What causes it? Those questions and more are answered in this Thanksgiving themed episode of Ask an Audiologist based on this article: https://askanaudiologist.com/tinnitus-in-children/